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{{#seo:
|title=ACE Manifest Software User Guide (CBP) {{!}} BorderConnect Support Wiki
|title_mode=replace
|keywords=ACE manifest, CBP truck e-manifest, US customs software, ACE portal alternative, FAST driver rules, ACE lead sheet QR code, Truck Manifest Modernization TMM, 19 CFR 123.92, cross-border logistics, BorderConnect guide
|description=The complete user guide for BorderConnect's ACE Manifest software. Learn how to submit U.S. CBP truck manifests, meet advance notice timeframes, and generate mandatory QR code lead sheets.
}}
{{note|This article is part of the [[ACE_Manifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBP)|BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide]]|info}}
{{note|This article is part of the [[ACE_Manifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBP)|BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide]]|info}}
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[[Image:AceLogo.jpg‎|200px|right]]
<div class="bc-article-hero">
== Introduction ==
<h1>ACE Manifest</h1>
<p>A comprehensive guide to U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) electronic truck manifest system, compliance rules, and modernization updates.</p>
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<span class="bc-article-pill"><i class="fas fa-chart-line"></i> Difficulty: Beginner</span>
<span class="bc-article-pill"><i class="far fa-clock"></i> Time: 15 Minutes</span>
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ACE '''(Automated Commercial Environment)''' is CBP's electronic manifest program. It is intended to facilitate trade while strengthening border security.<ref>https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated</ref> Since 2007, highway carriers have had to comply with ACE eManifest requirements when bringing goods into the United States by filing an ACE eManifest at least one hour prior to arrival at the border.
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[https://www.borderconnect.com BorderConnect's] [https://www.borderconnect.com/borderconnect/ace-e-manifest/index.htm ACE eManifest software] offers an extremely user-friendly web-based solution to comply with eManifest requirements, complete with [https://www.borderconnect.com/contact 24/7 technical support.]
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== ACE Manifest Requirements ==
<h2 style="margin-top: 0;">Overview</h2>
<p><strong>Automated Commercial Environment (ACE)</strong> is U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) primary trade processing system. For highway carriers, ACE includes the <strong>Truck e-Manifest</strong> capability, which allows carriers to electronically transmit inbound truck, conveyance, and cargo information to CBP <strong>prior to arrival at a U.S. land border crossing</strong>.<ref name="FR-ACE-2007">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2007-01-19/pdf/FR-2007-01-19.pdf</ref><ref name="CBP-emanifest-trucks-guide">https://www.sandersbrokerage.com/dev/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ACE-Truck-Manifest-User-Guide.pdf</ref></p>


Under ACE Manifest regulations trucks must ensure that BOTH the ACE Manifest and the entry number by the customs broker (for PAPS shipments) are on file with CBP for at least one hour prior to the driver's arrival at the border. Failure to do so could result in delays at the border, refused entry into the U.S. and/or penalty action. Users can also process and submit an ACE Manifest up to 30 days in advance of the driver crossing the U.S. Port of Entry.
<p>CBP’s advance electronic truck manifest requirements are implemented under <strong>19 CFR §123.92</strong>, which establishes mandatory advance timeframes for submitting cargo and conveyance data.<ref name="ECFR-12392">https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-19/chapter-I/part-123/subpart-J/section-123.92</ref></p>


When arriving at the border in the United States, the driver must present customs paperwork (ie customs invoice and/or Bill of Lading) with a legible trip number or shipment control number. Although CBP officers capture the trip information from the truck license plate, a PAPS barcode and/or barcoded ACE lead sheet can expedite the border processing time and also helps the officer to bring up the ACE Manifest in their system.
<p>[https://www.borderconnect.com BorderConnect] provides a web-based [https://www.borderconnect.com/borderconnect/ace-e-manifest/index.htm ACE eManifest solution] that allows carriers to meet CBP truck e-Manifest requirements, supported by [https://www.borderconnect.com/contact 24/7 technical support].</p>


The officer will then verify the information is correct, and it is their discretion to move the driver to secondary inspection or not for further verification. CBP officers do not stamp paperwork upon release of the shipment, and the only way to prove that a shipment was released with CBP is to use a signed proof of delivery document.
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ACE Manifest lead sheets can be generated from within BorderConnect, either from the manifest or as a set ahead of time. The carrier can also design and produce their own lead sheets.
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<h3>⏱️ ACE Truck e-Manifest at a Glance</h3>
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; margin-bottom:0;"
! Requirement !! Standard Movements !! FAST Movements
|-
| <strong>Advance transmission deadline</strong> || ≥ <strong>1 hour</strong> prior to arrival || ≥ <strong>30 minutes</strong> prior to arrival
|-
| <strong>Regulatory authority</strong> || colspan="2" | 19 CFR §123.92
|-
| <strong>Transmission methods</strong> || colspan="2" | ACE Portal or approved EDI / service provider
|-
| <strong>Driver document</strong> || colspan="2" | Manifest cover sheet (lead sheet)
|}
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<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">ACE Manifest Requirements</h2>
 
<div class="bc-card">
<h3>Advance Notice Timeframes</h3>
<p>Under 19 CFR §123.92, CBP must receive the required electronic truck cargo and conveyance information <strong>no later than 1 hour prior to arrival</strong> at the first U.S. port of arrival.</p>


= ACE Truck Manifest Modernization =
<div class="bc-did-you-know">
<strong>FAST Member Exception:</strong> For qualifying FAST movements, the minimum advance notice is reduced to <strong>30 minutes prior to arrival</strong>.<ref name="ECFR-12392" />
</div>


On January 30, 2022 U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began the multi-release deployment of Enhancements to ACE Truck Manifest - Phase 2, also known as ACE Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM). Enhancements to ACE Truck Manifest – Phase 2 is focused on enhancing the CBP user interface (UI) for the primary and secondary processing of truck manifests. As part of this deployment, previously relaxed validations in the legacy truck manifest application are now supported in TMM and may result in errors for some trade users. To prepare for the upcoming deployments and avoid potential errors, please review the validations as documented in the Truck Manifest X.12 – 309 and EDIFACT CUSCAR EDI implementation guides found at [https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated/technical/ace-import-manifest-documentation ACE Import Manifest Documentation]. For additional information, please review CSMS #51405084.
<p style="margin-top:15px;">These requirements apply regardless of whether the manifest is transmitted directly through the ACE Secure Data Portal or via an approved software provider like BorderConnect.</p>
</div>


Implementing the capabilities developed in Phase 2, deployment of Phase 3 enhancements will provide trade users with new messaging regarding modifications to Crew, Vehicle, Cargo and Seals. The Phase 3 deployment was set for July 11, 2022. More information on Phase 3 enhancements is available in the ACE Truck Manifest: Draft Chapters for Future Use implementation guides found on [https://CBP.gov CBP.gov].
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<h3>Why Advance Filing is Required</h3>
CBP’s truck e-Manifest program allows officers to:
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* Perform pre-arrival risk assessment.
* Identify admissibility or targeting issues earlier.
* Improve processing efficiency at primary inspection.
* Reduce border delays caused by incomplete or late information.
</div>
</div>


== Getting Started ==
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Filing ACE Truck e-Manifests</h2>


The first step is create profiles for any drivers, trucks and trailers that may be crossing the border. The information in these profiles will be used to complete mandatory fields on your manifests. It is recommended that you enter the profile information ahead of time to facilitate creating eManifests. Please refer to the individual sections for instructions on entering and maintaining:
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*[[Creating_and_Maintaining_Driver_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Driver profiles]]
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*[[Creating_and_Maintaining_Passenger_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Passenger profiles]]
<h3>Transmission Methods</h3>
*[[Creating_and_Maintaining_Truck_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Truck profiles]]
CBP supports two primary methods for filing:<ref name="CBP-emanifest-trucks-guide" />
*[[Creating_and_Maintaining_Trailer_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Trailer profiles]]
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* <strong>ACE Secure Data Portal:</strong> Manual entry via CBP’s web portal.
* <strong>EDI / Service Provider:</strong> Electronic messaging using CBP-tested software such as BorderConnect.
</div>
<p style="font-size: 0.9rem; color: #666; margin-top: 10px;">Carriers using a service provider remain fully responsible for the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the transmitted data.</p>
</div>


Once you are registered to use ACE with BorderConnect and you have created the driver, truck and trailer profiles, you are ready to begin creating and submitting eManifests to Customs!
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<h3>Manifest Cover Sheet</h3>
After a truck manifest is successfully transmitted and accepted by CBP, carriers can print a <strong>manifest cover sheet</strong> (commonly referred to as a <strong>lead sheet</strong>) from the manifest screen. This document helps CBP officers link the driver and conveyance at the port of entry to the electronically filed manifest.
</div>
</div>


== ACE Manifest Instructions ==
{{note|Local port procedures and document expectations may vary. Drivers should always carry paperwork appropriate to the shipment type and any applicable programs (FAST, in-bond, etc.).|info}}


Please refer to the individual sections for complete instructions on the following:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Modernization & QR Codes</h2>


* [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Creating and submitting a new ACE Manifest]]
<div class="bc-card" style="margin-bottom: 30px;">
* [[Correcting_Rejected_ACE_Manifests_(ACE_Manifest)|Correcting rejected ACE Manifests]]
<h3>Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM)</h3>
* [[Updating_or_Correcting_an_Accepted_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Updating or correcting an accepted manifest]]
<p>On <strong>January 30, 2022</strong>, CBP began deploying <strong>ACE Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM) – Phase 2</strong>. This initiative focused on modernizing and enhancing the user interface used by CBP officers for truck manifest processing.<ref name="CSMS-TMM-Phase2">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/31d9392</ref></p>
* [[Updating_or_Correcting_an_Arrived_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Updating a manifest when the driver has already arrived at the border]]
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* [[ACE_In_Bond_(CBP_Shipment_Type)|Creating your own bonds in ACE]]
* Certain validations relaxed in the legacy system are now <strong>strictly enforced</strong>.
* [[ACE_In_Bond_Sequences_(ACE_Manifest_/_U.S._In-Bond_Manager)|Creating and tracking your own In-Bond sequences]]
* Carriers may encounter new errors if data is incomplete or invalid.
* [[Creating_a_Split_Shipment_(ACE_Manifest)|How to create a split shipment in ACE]]
* The legacy truck manifest application (R4) is being retired.
* [[Shipment_Types_For_ACE_and_ACI_eManifest|Manifesting different types of shipments]]
</div>
* [[ACE_Shipment_CSV_Upload_Feature_(ACE_Manifest)|Uploading large volume of shipments using CSV upload feature]]
</div>
* [[US_In_Bond_Manager_Guide_(CBP)|U.S. In-Bond Manager Guide for CBP]]
 
* [[Creating_and_Managing_Insurance_Policies_(ACE Manifest)|Creating and Managing Insurance Policies]]
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<h3>QR Code Requirements</h3>
<p>Since 2020, truck manifest cover sheets can optionally include a <strong>Quick Response (QR) code</strong>. CBP identified benefits including faster manifest retrieval, improved matching accuracy, and fewer manual steps at primary inspection.<ref name="CSMS-QR-Optional">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/27bace9</ref></p>
 
<div class="bc-warning" style="margin-top: 15px;">
<strong>Mandatory at Laredo:</strong> Effective <strong>August 11, 2024</strong>, the Laredo Field Office requires QR codes on cover sheets for all its ports of entry (8 ports total).<ref name="LFO-QR-Req">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/3e4f415</ref>
</div>
</div>
 
<div style="flex: 1; min-width: 200px; text-align: center;">
[[Image:Qr-barcode-ace-leadsheet.png|thumb|center|300px|BorderConnect Generated Cover Sheet]]
</div>
 
</div>
</div>
 
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Getting Started in BorderConnect</h2>
 
<div class="bc-card">
<h3><span class="bc-step-circle">1</span> Create Profiles</h3>
<p>Before creating ACE manifests, create profiles for drivers, trucks, and trailers. This automatically populates mandatory fields and significantly reduces data entry errors.</p>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* [[Creating_and_Maintaining_Driver_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Driver Profiles]]
* [[Creating_and_Maintaining_Truck_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Truck Profiles]]
* [[Creating_and_Maintaining_Trailer_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Trailer Profiles]]
* [[Creating_and_Maintaining_Passenger_Profiles_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|Passenger Profiles]]
</div>
{{note|If you also use BorderConnect ACI eManifest software, these profiles are shared between ACE and ACI.|info}}
</div>
 
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<h3><span class="bc-step-circle">2</span> Create & Submit Manifest</h3>
<p>Once profiles are set up, you can begin creating and submitting ACE truck manifests. Ensure all data is transmitted early enough to meet CBP’s advance notice requirements.</p>
<div class="bc-subtle">
See: [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a New ACE Manifest]]
</div>
</div>
 
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Tutorial Library</h2>
<p>Helpful videos for specific ACE scenarios.</p>
 
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  </div>
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  <div class="bc-video-trigger" data-video-id="O68y9wz_DQ8">
    <div class="bc-play-icon" style="font-size: 40px;"><i class="fas fa-play-circle"></i></div>
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  <div class="bc-video-trigger" data-video-id="5ASPCIRR308">
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== ACE Manifest Tutorial Videos ==
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{|
<div class="bc-card" style="padding: 15px;">
|{{#ev:youtube|zemtEcz2Cp8|360|left|How to create an ACE eManifest in BorderConnect.}}
  <div class="bc-video-trigger" data-video-id="c5OKFxbl190">
|{{#ev:youtube|bY6FKNGdz6M|360|left|How to create and submit an ACE In-Bond.}}
    <div class="bc-play-icon" style="font-size: 40px;"><i class="fas fa-play-circle"></i></div>
|{{#ev:youtube|l3OsoWtH6uU|360|left|How to amend and cancel an ACE in BorderConnect.}}
  </div>
|}
</div>


{|
</div> <div class="bc-card" style="margin-top: 30px;">
|{{#ev:youtube|O68y9wz_DQ8|360|left|How to create an empty ACE in BorderConnect.}}
<h3>Related Guides</h3>
|{{#ev:youtube|5ASPCIRR308|360|left|How to create a Goods Astray in BorderConnect.}}
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
|{{#ev:youtube|_izn28Tdklg|360|left|How to create and submit IITs in BorderConnect.}}
* [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Creating and submitting a new ACE Manifest]]
|}
* [[Correcting_Rejected_ACE_Manifests_(ACE_Manifest)|Correcting rejected ACE Manifests]]
* [[ACE_Manifest_Status_Guide_(ACE_Manifest)|ACE Manifest Status Guide]]
* [[ACE_In_Bond_(CBP_Shipment_Type)|Creating In-Bonds in ACE]]
* [[Creating_a_Split_Shipment_(ACE_Manifest)|Creating split shipments]]
* [[US_In_Bond_Manager_Guide_(CBP)|U.S. In-Bond Manager Guide]]
* [[Shipment_Types_For_ACE_and_ACI_eManifest|Manifesting different shipment types]]
* [[ACE_Shipment_CSV_Upload_Feature_(ACE_Manifest)|Uploading shipments via CSV]]
</div>
</div>


{|
{{AppPromo}}
|{{#ev:youtube|eYK-dVsWHqc|360|left|How to create a Personal Shipment in BorderConnect.}}
|{{#ev:youtube|c5OKFxbl190|360|left|How to create a Section 321 in BorderConnect.}}
|}


== References:==
== References ==
<references />
<references />


[[Category:ACE Manifest Guide]]
</div> [[Category:ACE Manifest Guide]]

Latest revision as of 14:30, 24 February 2026

🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide

ACE Manifest

A comprehensive guide to U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) electronic truck manifest system, compliance rules, and modernization updates.

Overview

Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) is U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) primary trade processing system. For highway carriers, ACE includes the Truck e-Manifest capability, which allows carriers to electronically transmit inbound truck, conveyance, and cargo information to CBP prior to arrival at a U.S. land border crossing.[1][2]

CBP’s advance electronic truck manifest requirements are implemented under 19 CFR §123.92, which establishes mandatory advance timeframes for submitting cargo and conveyance data.[3]

BorderConnect provides a web-based ACE eManifest solution that allows carriers to meet CBP truck e-Manifest requirements, supported by 24/7 technical support.

⏱️ ACE Truck e-Manifest at a Glance

Requirement Standard Movements FAST Movements
Advance transmission deadline 1 hour prior to arrival 30 minutes prior to arrival
Regulatory authority 19 CFR §123.92
Transmission methods ACE Portal or approved EDI / service provider
Driver document Manifest cover sheet (lead sheet)

ACE Manifest Requirements

Advance Notice Timeframes

Under 19 CFR §123.92, CBP must receive the required electronic truck cargo and conveyance information no later than 1 hour prior to arrival at the first U.S. port of arrival.

FAST Member Exception: For qualifying FAST movements, the minimum advance notice is reduced to 30 minutes prior to arrival.[3]

These requirements apply regardless of whether the manifest is transmitted directly through the ACE Secure Data Portal or via an approved software provider like BorderConnect.

Why Advance Filing is Required

CBP’s truck e-Manifest program allows officers to:

  • Perform pre-arrival risk assessment.
  • Identify admissibility or targeting issues earlier.
  • Improve processing efficiency at primary inspection.
  • Reduce border delays caused by incomplete or late information.

Filing ACE Truck e-Manifests

Transmission Methods

CBP supports two primary methods for filing:[2]

  • ACE Secure Data Portal: Manual entry via CBP’s web portal.
  • EDI / Service Provider: Electronic messaging using CBP-tested software such as BorderConnect.

Carriers using a service provider remain fully responsible for the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the transmitted data.

Manifest Cover Sheet

After a truck manifest is successfully transmitted and accepted by CBP, carriers can print a manifest cover sheet (commonly referred to as a lead sheet) from the manifest screen. This document helps CBP officers link the driver and conveyance at the port of entry to the electronically filed manifest.

🔖 Local port procedures and document expectations may vary. Drivers should always carry paperwork appropriate to the shipment type and any applicable programs (FAST, in-bond, etc.).

Modernization & QR Codes

Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM)

On January 30, 2022, CBP began deploying ACE Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM) – Phase 2. This initiative focused on modernizing and enhancing the user interface used by CBP officers for truck manifest processing.[4]

  • Certain validations relaxed in the legacy system are now strictly enforced.
  • Carriers may encounter new errors if data is incomplete or invalid.
  • The legacy truck manifest application (R4) is being retired.

QR Code Requirements

Since 2020, truck manifest cover sheets can optionally include a Quick Response (QR) code. CBP identified benefits including faster manifest retrieval, improved matching accuracy, and fewer manual steps at primary inspection.[5]

Mandatory at Laredo: Effective August 11, 2024, the Laredo Field Office requires QR codes on cover sheets for all its ports of entry (8 ports total).[6]

BorderConnect Generated Cover Sheet

Getting Started in BorderConnect

1 Create Profiles

Before creating ACE manifests, create profiles for drivers, trucks, and trailers. This automatically populates mandatory fields and significantly reduces data entry errors.

🔖 If you also use BorderConnect ACI eManifest software, these profiles are shared between ACE and ACI.

2 Create & Submit Manifest

Once profiles are set up, you can begin creating and submitting ACE truck manifests. Ensure all data is transmitted early enough to meet CBP’s advance notice requirements.

Tutorial Library

Helpful videos for specific ACE scenarios.

📱

eManifesting in your pocket. Process ACE & ACI eManifests, track shipments in real-time, and upload documents instantly—anytime, anywhere.

References